Awareness Campaign on HIV/AIDS and Mass HIV Testing Launched in Siaha

Sept 2025 – Siaha : The ‘Intensified IEC Campaign & HIV Test Drive Campaign 2025’ was launched at MADC Golden Jubilee Hall, Siaha. The event was graced by Pu V.L. Hruaizela Khiangte, Chairman, District AIDS Prevention & Control Committee, Siaha, and the Deputy Commissioner of Siaha, who served as chief guests.

In his address, the chief guest praised the initiative for Siaha district, noting that it is a commendable step and expressing appreciation for the efforts of the Health Department (MSACS). He emphasized the need to continue such campaigns to combat the growing threat of HIV/AIDS, pointing out that while people are aware of the disease, its dangers are still not fully understood. He warned that carelessness or overconfidence can worsen the situation and stressed that awareness and preventive education must reach even the remotest corners of society.

He highlighted the seriousness of the HIV/AIDS situation in Mizoram, which continues to record one of the highest prevalence rates in India. In Siaha district, the number of new infections has been increasing rapidly, which he described as deeply concerning. Due to its border location, Siaha remains vulnerable to drug abuse and risky behavior, making prevention work even more crucial.

The speaker also raised concerns about students frequently traveling across districts for education. He urged them to remain vigilant, noting that if young people continue to disregard the risks, society’s perception of the district could further deteriorate. He called on teachers to impart not only academic knowledge but also life skills, reminding the youth that “Failure does not mean the end of life, but a refusal to try responsibly leads to failure.”

He stressed that peer pressure, bad influence, and irresponsible behavior are among the leading causes of risk. To overcome this, young people in Siaha must learn to say no to drugs and unsafe practices, which will help create a healthy and vibrant community. “If we ourselves do not choose wisely,” he said, “others cannot save us.”

He further noted that life itself comes with challenges, but resilience and discipline are essential. In the fight against HIV/AIDS, it is important to understand that “Prevention is better than cure,” and that careless attitudes can undo all efforts. Encouraging open conversations, he emphasized that individuals must guide and advise each other regularly to overcome this threat.

During the event, Pi Zingia Hlychho, ICTC Counselor at District Hospital Siaha, conducted an awareness session on HIV/AIDS, while Pi Merilyne MS Mawii Beiho, Mental Health Nurse, District Mental Health Programme, Siaha, delivered a session on drug abuse and its consequences.

The programme, organized by the District AIDS Prevention & Control Committee, Siaha, was chaired by H. Lalhlunsangi, with welcome remarks by Dr. Lalnunziri, Sr. CMO. Around 300 students and teachers from four higher secondary schools in Siaha town participated. The event concluded with a vote of thanks by Dr. Lalrengpuii Ralte, DACO, Siaha district.

As part of the Intensified IEC Campaign & HIV Test Drive Campaign, awareness and testing drives will be conducted across 25 villages of Siaha district during the months of September and October 2025.